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How To Fix iMessage Not Delivered Error

iMessage is Apple’s popular messaging service that allows iOS and Mac users to send messages, photos, videos, and more between devices. It utilizes data connections (Wi-Fi or cellular data) to send messages instead of relying solely on cellular networks like regular SMS/MMS messaging.

While iMessage is generally reliable, users sometimes encounter errors like “Not Delivered” when trying to send a message. There are several potential causes and fixes for this error, which we will cover in this guide.

Common Causes of iMessage Not Delivered Error

Here are some of the most common reasons you may see the “Not Delivered” error in iMessage:

  • Poor internet connection on your device or the recipient’s device
  • iMessage service issues or outages
  • Software bugs or glitches on your device
  • Recipient has iMessage disabled or their device is offline
  • Recipient’s device lacks storage space for new messages
  • You or the recipient may be blocked

Fixes and Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter the “Not Delivered” error in iMessage, try these troubleshooting steps:

1. Check Your Internet Connection

iMessage relies on an internet connection to send and receive messages. Check that you have a strong Wi-Fi or cellular data connection on your device.

To check your connection:

  • Launch Safari and try to load a web page
  • If the page fails to load, you have a connection problem
  • Disable Wi-Fi and try loading a web page using just cellular data
  • If that succeeds, the issue may be with your Wi-Fi network

2. Check if iMessage Is Down

Sometimes “Not Delivered” errors occur because the iMessage service itself is experiencing an outage. Apple has a system status page that shows the current status of iMessage.

3. Update Your iPhone Software

Bugs in your device’s software can sometimes interfere with iMessage. Updating to the latest iOS version can resolve software-related issues.

To update iOS:

  1. Open the Settings app
  2. Tap General > Software Update
  3. Install any available updates

4. Toggle Airplane Mode

Toggling Airplane Mode off and back on again will disconnect and reconnect your internet connections. This can resolve temporary connection problems.

To toggle Airplane mode:

  1. Open Control Center (swipe down from top right on newer iPhones or up from bottom on older iPhones)
  2. Tap the Airplane Mode icon to enable it
  3. Wait 30 seconds then tap again to disable

5. Force Restart Your iPhone

If software is frozen or acting buggy, force restarting your iPhone will refresh the operating system.

To force restart:

  • Quickly press and release the Volume Up button
  • Immediately press and release the Volume Down button
  • Finally, press and hold the Side button until you see the Apple logo

This will abruptly power cycle your phone and restart it, refreshing software and connections.

6. Disable and Re-enable iMessage

If all else fails, disabling iMessage entirely and then re-enabling it can resolve persistent issues.

To disable/re-enable iMessage:

  1. Go to Settings > Messages
  2. Turn the iMessage switch OFF (disable iMessage completely)
  3. Wait 5-10 minutes, then return to the same setting and turn iMessage back ON.

Allow a few minutes for iMessage reactivation to complete. This essentially gives iMessage a fresh start, clearing out any problematic settings or activations.

Preventing Future “Not Delivered” Errors

While occasional iMessage problems are inevitable, you can take steps to minimize errors in the future:

  • Maintain a reliable Wi-Fi connection and cellular plan
  • Promptly install iOS updates
  • Restart your iPhone regularly (at least once a week)
  • Monitor Apple System Status page for service issues
  • Disable iMessage before resetting network settings
  • Clear message app cache/data if problems persist

When to Contact Apple Support

If you still see “Not Delivered” errors in iMessage after trying all troubleshooting steps, reach out to Apple support:

  • Use Apple Support app on iPhone for chat or phone support
  • Visit Get Support section of Apple.com
  • Make a Genius Bar appointment at local Apple Store

Apple support can run diagnostics, check server status, and ensure your account/device is working properly. They can also determine if a hardware repair/replacement is needed.

Following the troubleshooting tips in this guide should resolve most common iMessage delivery errors. But for persistent or unresolved problems, don’t hesitate to leverage Apple’s technical support options.

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